“Tear the Bread, Pour the Juice” is part four of a six-part series inviting you and a small gathering of people to share a meal and engage in intentional conversation during each meal. May this guide attune you to the mysteriously holy experience of sharing a meal.

 

Introduction

Before the meal begins each person is invited to introduce themselves by sharing the name they prefer to be called, the pronouns they use, and their favorite social media platform and/or video game. 

Blessing

Invite someone to offer a blessing—this, or their own blessing:

Holy One of abundance and welcome, we give thanks for your creation and the goodness that it produces. As we open our mouths to consume and converse, may our ears, our hearts, and our spirits also be open to the sacred that is among us. Amen.

(All are invited to eat at this time)

Read

• Invite someone to read “Tear the Bread, Pour the Juice” by Jann Kibe. 
• As you read this together pay attention to the thoughts, the feelings, and personal previous experiences that arise.

Reflect

• What aspect of Kibe’s piece stood out to you most? 

• What feelings arose in you? 

• What in-person experiences have you become accustomed to experiencing in virtual spaces? What are the benefits and downfalls of experiencing them in virtual spaces? 

• Based on your understanding and experiences, what is the purpose of communion? Can that purpose be achieved through virtual communion? 

• Would you join a meal such as this, virtually? How might the experience be different, yet still achieve the purpose of a shared meal? 

• How can virtual experiences be used to enhance community, spiritual experiences, and in-person experiences? 

Closing

• What is the “parting gift” you will be taking from this shared meal?
• Invite each person to share a one-word blessing before you depart.